The right thing to do

It is no exaggeration to say that Ekurhuleni metropolitan police chief Robert McBride is prone to controversy.

It is no exaggeration to say that Ekurhuleni metropolitan police chief Robert McBride is prone to controversy.

Without presuming guilt on the part of the ANC stalwart, we advise him to limit further damage to his office by seriously reviewing his position.

Perhaps he should take his cue from those public leaders who, once suspected of an impropriety, immediately recuse themselves from their official duties until the cloud over their head has been removed.

In the latest unpalatable episode involving McBride, he has been portrayed as having acted with privileged impunity.

He should heed those who have advised him to take leave in the light of reports that six of his police officers are facing suspension for defeating the ends of justice on his behalf.

The six reportedly rushed to where McBride's vehicle overturned last month, allegedly cleared the scene of witnesses and onlookers, and even prevented paramedics from attending to the injured police boss.

The officers whisked McBride away before the police could determine his blood-alcohol level.

Why did the officers react in this way, and what vital or incriminating evidence did they remove from the scene?

Because of the cloud hanging over him, McBride should do the honourable thing and step down until the matter has been thoroughly investigated and resolved.